Do you know what makes a gaming keyboard feel good? It’s not just the keycaps – it’s the keyboard switches. There are many different mechanical switches on the market, and each one has its unique feel. In this blog post, we will discuss the different keyboard switches and help you find the one that’s right for you!
Choosing the best gaming keyboard for you can be hard – there are so many options and brands available today.
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What are mechanical keyboard switches?
Mechanical keyboard switches are the heart and soul of any mechanical keyboard. They’re what gives the mechanical keyboards its unique feel, and they can make a big difference in your typing or gaming experience.
Some mechanical switches are designed for gaming, while others are designed for typing. And still, others are designed to be a balance of both.
No matter what your needs are, there’s a keyboard switch out there that’s perfect for you. But before we get into the details, let’s look at the mechanical switch, how it works, and the different parts.
Parts of the keyboard switch
A keyboard switch is made up of six main parts: the keycap, the stem, the switch housing, the slider, the metal contact leaves, and the spring.
Keycap
The keycap is the plastic top part of the switch with the letter printing. It’s what you press when you type, and it sits on top of the stem.
Stem
The stem is the part of the switch that the keycap is mounted on. The shape of the stem differs from switch to switch. Some keyboard switches have a round stem, while others have a flat stem. The shape of the stem can affect how the key feels when you press it.
Switch housing
The switch housing is the case that holds all the components of the keyboard switch together. It’s usually made of plastic, but some higher-end keyboard switches have a metal switch housing.
Slider
The slider is the part of the switch that pushes against the spring. When you press a key, the slider moves down and interrupts the connection between the two metal contact leaves.
Metal contact leaves
The metal contact leaves are what register a keystroke when they strike one another. They’re usually made of copper or brass.
Spring
The spring is the part of the switch that pushes the switch back into its resting position after you release the key. Springs can be made of different materials, and they can vary in size and stiffness.
As a comparison, rubber dome only use 3 to 4 parts while mechanical keyboard switches use six. This is one of the main reasons why mechanical switches are more durable and expensive than rubber dome gaming keyboards.
What do keyboard switches do?
Keyboard switches are what register a keystroke when you press a key. They’re made up of a series of parts that work together to create the perfect typing or gaming experience.
When you press a key, the slider moves down and interrupts the connection between the two metal contact leaves. This completes the circuit and sends a signal to your computer that you’ve pressed a key. The spring then pushes the switch back into its resting position, and the keyboard is ready for your next keystroke.
There are many different types of keyboard switches, each with its own unique feel. Some mechanical switches are designed for gaming, while others are designed for typing. And still, others are designed to be a balance of both. No matter what your needs are, there’s a keyboard switch out there that’s perfect for you.
Types of keyboard switches
There are three main switch types of mechanical switches: linear, tactile, and clicky.
Linear Switch
What does linear switch mean?
Linear keyboard switches are the most basic switch type. They have a smooth, consistent keypress from start to finish. Linear switches are the best mechanical switch for gaming because they’re fast, responsive, and don’t require a lot of force to press. This type of switch is also more durable than other types of switches.
Linear mechanical keyboard switches usually don’t have a tactile bump or click, so they are quiet mechanical keyboard switches. They are usually referred to as red switches.
Properties:
- No feedback
- No click
Benefit:
- Smooth, consistent keystrokes
- Easy to use
- Low noise
Drawback:
- No feedback when keystroke is registered
- Requires more force and time as you usually press buttons completely due to lack of feedback
Tactile Switch
What does tactile switch mean?
Tactile switches have a small tactile bump near the actuation point. This tactile bump lets you know that you’ve pressed the key far enough to register a keystroke. Tactile switches are the best mechanical switch for typing because they provide physical feedback that you’ve pressed the key.
For games where speed is important like FPS-Games, tactile mechanical keyboard switches are a good choice as you can feel the exact moment when the keystroke is registered without having to bottom out the key. With some practice, this will improve your reaction time significantly. Tactile switches are often referred to as brown switches.
Tactile or linear switches
Properties:
- Tactile feedback
- No click
Benefit:
- Tactile feedback helps you know when a key has been pressed
- Satisfying to press
- Faster typing
- Recommended
Drawback:
- Louder than linear switches
Clicky Switch
What does clicky switch mean?
Clicky keyboard switches have a pronounced click when you press the key down. This click lets you know that you’ve pressed the key far enough to register a keystroke. Clicky switches are popular with typists because they’re easy to control and provide great feedback. Additional to the audible feedback, clicky mechanical switches also provide tactile feedback making them the ultimate tool to improve your typing speed.
As with the tactile switches, for games where speed is important, clicky switches can be a good choice as you can feel when the keystroke is registered without having to bottom out the key. However, the audible feedback can be distracting in a quiet environment.
Clicky switches are often referred to as blue switches.
Properties:
- Tactile feedback
- Audible click
Benefit:
- Provides auditory feedback so you know when a keystroke has been registered
- Satisfying to press
- Faster typing
Drawback:
- Loud clicking sound may be annoying to others
What do the different switch colors mean?
Not all mechanical keyboard switches are created equal. You can distinguish the switch type and the actuation force by the switch color. Below you find a table for the most common switch colors and their meaning.
| Switch Color | Switch Type | Feeling |
|---|---|---|
| Red Switch | Linear Switch | Normal Force required |
| Brown Switch | Tactile Switch | Normal Force required |
| Blue Switch | Clicky Switch | Normal Force required |
| Black Switch | Linear Switch | More Force required |
| Green Switch | Clicky Switch | More Force required |
| Silver Switch | Linear Switch | Less Force required |
How to choose the right keyboard switch
The switch type you choose is a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer the smooth, consistent keypress of a linear switch. Others prefer the feedback and tactile feel of a tactile or clicky keyboard switch. And still, others prefer a balance of both.
But we have some general guidelines you can consider in your decision:
Environment:
If you’re looking for a mechanical keyboard for the office, you might want to consider a linear or tactile switch. These switches are less likely to disturb your co-workers with their noise.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a mechanical keyboard for gaming at home, a clicky switch might be the way to go. The audible feedback can help you keep track of your keystrokes, and the tactile feedback can help you know when a key has been pressed.
Usage:
If you do a lot of typing, you might want to consider a mechanical keyboard with a tactile or clicky switch. These switches provide feedback that can help you improve your speed and accuracy.
If you’re looking for a mechanical keyboard for gaming, a linear switch might be the best choice. These switches are fast and consistent, which can help you up your game.
Budget:
If you’re on a tight budget, you might want to consider a mechanical keyboard with black or red switches. These switches are less expensive than some of the other options.
If you’re willing to spend a little more, you might want to consider a mechanical keyboard with brown or blue switches. These switches provide a balance of speed, precision, and feedback.
There is no single “best” mechanical keyboard switch. The right switch for you depends on your usage, environment, and budget. The best way to figure out which switch type is right for you is to try them out. Many keyboard manufacturers offer switch sample kits so you can test each type of switch before you buy a keyboard. Or, if you know someone who has a mechanical keyboard, ask to try it out.
Once you’ve had a chance to try out all the different types of keyboard switches, you’ll be able to make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
You can also find a mechanical keyboard switch sample kit on Amazon.
No matter what type of keyboard switch you choose, you’re sure to enjoy the benefits of a mechanical keyboard. So what are you waiting for? Start shopping for your new keyboard today!
The benefits of using a mechanical switch over a traditional membrane keyboard
The benefits are many. For one, mechanical switches are more durable and will last longer. They’re also more responsive and provide a better typing experience. And, if you choose the right keyboard switch, you can get a keyboard that’s tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re a gamer, a typist, or someone who needs a balance of both, there’s a keyboard switch out there that’s perfect for you.
What to look for in a keyboard switch?
When you’re shopping for a keyboard, it’s important to pay attention to the type of switch that’s being used. Not all switches are created equal. Some are better for gaming, while others are better for typing. And, there are even some switches that are designed to be a balance of both.
Here are some things to keep in mind when you’re shopping for a mechanical keyboard switch:
- The type of switch: There are three main types of keyboard switches – linear, tactile, and clicky. Each one has its own benefits and drawbacks. Consider what you’ll be using the keyboard for and choose the switch that’s right for you.
- The actuation force: This is how much force is required to press the key down. A higher actuation force means the key will require more pressure to press down, which can be beneficial for gaming.
- The actuation point: This is the point at which the keystroke is registered. A lower actuation point means the key will require less pressure to press down, which can be beneficial
- The actuation distance: This is the distance the key travels from the resting position to the actuation point. A shorter travel distance can be beneficial for gaming, as it requires less effort to press the keys.
- The spring force: This is the amount of force required to return the key to the resting position. A higher spring force means the key will require more force to press down, which can be beneficial for gaming.
- The lifetime: Mechanical switches are designed to last longer than traditional membrane keyboard switches.
Cherry MX switches
The German mechanical switch manufacturer Cherry is the inventor and offers mechanical switches for every need. Cherry MX switches are used in numerous mechanical keyboards.
Cherry MX switches are designed to withstand between 50-100 million keystrokes. That’s why mechanical keyboards with Cherry switches guarantee an exceptionally long life span.
Cherry mechanical switches are available in different versions that differ in their feedback and typing feel.
Cherry offers mechanical keyboard switches for every need. You can choose between linear, tactile, and clicky mechanical switches.
Cherry MX Red
Style: Linear
Actuation Force: 45g
Actuation Point: 2mm
Total Travel Distance: 4mm
Sound Level: No Click
Lifetime: 100 million keystrokes guaranteed
These keyboard switches are linear. They have a smooth, consistent keypress from start to finish. Cherry MX Reds are popular with gamers because they’re fast and responsive.
Cherry MX Red is among the most popular Cherry MX switches and commonly referred as red switch. They’re linear, fast, and responsive, making them great for gaming. But they’re also popular with typists because of their smooth, consistent keypress.
Cherry MX Speed Silver
Style: Linear
Actuation Force: 45g
Actuation Point: 1.2mm
Total Travel Distance: 3.4mm
Sound Level: No Click
Lifetime: 100 million keystrokes guaranteed
One of the newest Cherry MX switches on the market is the Cherry MX Speed Silver. This keyboard switch is linear. It has a smooth, consistent keypress from start to finish. The Cherry MX Speed Silver is popular with gamers because it’s fast and responsive.
Cherry MX Black
Style: Linear
Actuation Force: 60g
Actuation Point: 2mm
Total Travel Distance: 4mm
Sound Level: No Click
Lifetime: 100 million keystrokes guaranteed
These Cherry MX switches are linear. They have a smooth, consistent keypress from start to finish. With increased spring tension, Cherry MX Blacks require more force to press the key down. This makes them popular with gamers who don’t want their keys to get pressed accidentally.
Cherry MX Brown
Style: Tactile
Actuation Force: 55g
Actuation Point: 2mm
Total Travel Distance: 4mm
Sound Level: No Click
Lifetime: 100 million keystrokes guaranteed
These Cherry MX switches are tactile. They have a small bump near the actuation point. This bump lets you know that you’ve pressed the key far enough to register a keystroke. Cherry MX Browns are popular with typists because they’re easy to control.
Cherry MX Brown is one of the most popular Cherry MX switches. They’re tactile, this lets you know that you’ve pressed the key far enough to register a keystroke. They’re also easy to control, making them great for typing.
Cherry MX Blue
Style: Clicky
Actuation Force: 60g
Actuation Point: 2.2mm
Total Travel Distance: 4mm
Sound Level: With Click
Lifetime: 50 million keystrokes guaranteed
These keyboard switches are clicky. They have a pronounced click when you press the key down. This click lets you know that you’ve pressed the key far enough to register a keystroke. Cherry MX Blues are popular with typists because they’re easy to control and provide feedback.
Cherry MX Blue is one of the most popular Cherry MX switches. If you enjoy the click sound, then this mechanical switch is for you. They’re also easy to control and provide feedback, making them great for both, gaming and typing.
Cherry MX Silent Red
Style: Linear
Actuation Force: 45g
Actuation Point: 1.9mm
Total Travel Distance: 3.7mm
Sound Level: Silent
Lifetime: 50 million keystrokes guaranteed
Another keyboard switch from Cherry is the Cherry MX Silent Red. This keyboard switch is linear. It has a smooth, consistent keypress from start to finish. The Cherry MX Silent Red is popular with gamers because it’s fast and responsive. It’s also popular with typists because it’s quiet.
Cherry MX Silent Black
Style: Linear
Actuation Force: 60g
Actuation Point: 1.9mm
Total Travel Distance: 3.7mm
Sound Level: Silent
Lifetime: 50 million keystrokes guaranteed
The Cherry MX Silent Black is a keyboard switch that’s similar to the Cherry MX Silent Red. It’s linear and has a smooth, consistent keypress. The Cherry MX Silent Black is popular with gamers because it’s fast and responsive. It’s also popular with typists because it´s quiet.
The main difference to the Cherry MX Silent Red is the actuation force. The Cherry MX Silent Black requires more force to press the key down.
Cherry MX Green
Style: Clicky
Actuation Force: 80g
Actuation Point: 2.2mm
Total Travel Distance: 4mm
Sound Level: With Click
Lifetime: 50 million keystrokes guaranteed
The Cherry MX Green is from the Cherry MX special series, it´s a clicky switch similar to the MX Blue but requires a higher actuation force so accidental keypresses are less likely to happen.
Cherry MX Low Profile RGB Red
Style: Linear
Actuation Force: 45g
Actuation Point: 1.2mm
Total Travel Distance: 3.2mm
Sound Level: No Click
Lifetime: 100 million keystrokes guaranteed
One of the newest Cherry MX switches on the market is the MX Low Profile RGB Red. This keyboard switch is linear. It has a smooth, consistent keypress from start to finish. The MX Low Profile RGB Red is popular with gamers because it’s fast and responsive.
The main difference from other mechanical switches is the actuation force and the low profile design.
Cherry MX Low Profile RGB Silver
Style: Linear
Actuation Force: 45g
Actuation Point: 1mm
Total Travel Distance: 3.2mm
Sound Level: No Click
Lifetime: 100 million keystrokes guaranteed
The MX Low Profile RGB Speed Silver is a keyboard switch that’s similar to the MX Low Profile RGB Red. It’s linear and has a smooth, consistent keypress. The MX Low Profile RGB Speed Silver is popular with gamers because it’s fast and responsive.
With only 1mm of total travel, it’s one of the fastest keyboard switches on the market.
Cherry MX Ultra Low Profile
Style: Clicky
Actuation Force: 65g
Actuation Point: 0.8mm
Total Travel Distance: 3.2mm
Sound Level: With Click
Lifetime: 50 million keystrokes guaranteed
The Cherry MX Ultra Low Profile is a clicky keyboard switch. It has a pronounced click when you press the key down. This click lets you know that you’ve pressed the key far enough to register a keystroke.
With only 0.8mm of total travel, it’s one of the fastest keyboard switches on the market and ultra low profile design.
Kailh
Kailh is a major Chinese keyboard switch manufacturer that was founded in 1990. The company has expanded its products and presence all over the globe, with its keyboard switches competing directly against the Cherry MX switch. Kailh switches are commonly referred to as “Cherry MX clones”.
They have the same stem design and color schemes as Cherry MX switches. This means that keycaps designed for Cherry MX stems are also compatible with Kailh switches.
Kailh Red
Style: Linear
Actuation Force: 50g
Actuation Point: 2mm
Total Travel Distance: 4mm
Sound Level: No Click
Lifetime: 50 million keystrokes guaranteed
Kailh Brown
Style: Tactile
Actuation Force: 50g
Actuation Point: 2mm
Total Travel Distance: 4mm
Sound Level: No Click
Lifetime: 50 million keystrokes guaranteed
Kailh Blue
Style: Clicky
Actuation Force: 60g
Actuation Point: 2mm
Total Travel Distance: 4mm
Sound Level: With Click
Lifetime: 50 million keystrokes guaranteed
Kailh Black
Style: Linear
Actuation Force: 60g
Actuation Point: 2mm
Total Travel Distance: 4mm
Sound Level: No Click
Lifetime: 50 million keystrokes guaranteed
Gateron
Gateron is another mechanical switch manufacturer based in China. The company was established in 2000 to produce higher quality switches than those that were available on the market.
Gateron mechanical switches are similar to Cherry MX switches in many ways. They have the same keycap compatibility and use the same color scheme to denote switch types.
However, Gateron switches are often smoother than Cherry MX switches. This is because Gateron uses a different molding process that gives the switches a smoother finish.
Gateron Red
Style: Linear
Actuation Force: 45g
Actuation Point: 2mm
Total Travel Distance: 4mm
Sound Level: No Click
Lifetime: 50 million keystrokes guaranteed
The Gateron Red is a linear mechanical switch with a medium actuation force. It’s designed for gaming but can also be used for typing.
Gateron Brown
Style: Tactile
Actuation Force: 55g
Actuation Point: 2mm
Total Travel Distance: 4mm
Sound Level: No Click
Lifetime: 50 million keystrokes guaranteed
The Gateron Brown is a tactile mechanical switch with a higher actuation force. It’s designed for gaming but can also be used for office work.
Gateron Blue
Style: Clicky
Actuation Force: 60g
Actuation Point: 2.3mm
Total Travel Distance: 4mm
Sound Level: With Click
Lifetime: 50 million keystrokes guaranteed
The Gateron Blue is a clicky mechanical switch with a high actuation force. It’s designed for typing but can also be used for gaming.
Gateron Yellow
Style: Linear
Actuation Force: 50g
Actuation Point: 2mm
Total Travel Distance: 4mm
Sound Level: No Click
Lifetime: 50 million keystrokes guaranteed
The Gateron Yellow is a linear switch with a higher actuation force. It’s designed for gaming but can also be used for office work. It’s a quiet switch, so it won’t be as loud as the other Gateron switches.
Gateron Black
Style: Linear
Actuation Force: 60g
Actuation Point: 2mm
Total Travel Distance: 4mm
Sound Level: No Click
Lifetime: 50 million keystrokes guaranteed
The Gateron Black is a linear switch with a high actuation force. It’s designed for gaming but can also be used for office work. It makes a gentle sound when pressed, so it won’t be as loud as the clicky switch.
Gateron Green
Style: Clicky
Actuation Force: 80g
Actuation Point: 2.3mm
Total Travel Distance: 4mm
Sound Level: With Click
Lifetime: 50 million keystrokes guaranteed
The Gateron Green is a clicky switch with a high actuation force. It’s designed for typing but can also be used for gaming. It requires more force to press than the Gateron Blue, so it’s not recommended for people with lighter hands.
Gateron White
Style: Linear
Actuation Force: 35g
Actuation Point: 2mm
Total Travel Distance: 4mm
Sound Level: No Click
Lifetime: 50 million keystrokes guaranteed
The Gateron White is a linear switch with a low actuation force. It’s designed for gaming but can also be used for office work. It’s a quiet switch, so you won’t disturb others.
Logitech
Logitech, a well-known keyboard and mouse manufacturer, recently announced its mechanical keyboard switch the Logitech Romer-G switch.
In cooperation with Omron, a Japanese electronics manufacturer, Logitech developed a keyboard switch with a short travel distance and a quick reset.
Logitech also uses its low-profile GL switches in its G keyboard and Pro keyboard. The GL switches are designed for a ultra-low keyboard with a more natural hand position.
Romer-G Linear
Style: Linear
Actuation Force: 45g
Actuation Point: 1.5mm
Total Travel Distance: 3.2mm
Sound Level: No Click
Lifetime: 70 million keystrokes guaranteed
The Logitech Romer-G Linear keyboard switch is a linear switch. Popular with gamers because they’re fast and responsive.
Romer-G Tactile
Style: Tactile
Actuation Force: 45g
Actuation Point: 1.5mm
Total Travel Distance: 3mm
Sound Level: No Click
Lifetime: 70 million keystrokes guaranteed
The Logitech Romer-G Tactile keyboard switch is a tactile switch. Recommended for both gaming and typing, a popular choice for gamers and typists alike.
GL Linear Low-Profil
Style: Linear
Actuation Force: 50g
Actuation Point: 1.5mm
Total Travel Distance: 2.7mm
Sound Level: No Click
Lifetime: 70 million keystrokes guaranteed
Ideal for MMO and action games with rapid successive keystrokes.
GL Tactile Low-Profil
Style: Tactile
Actuation Force: 60g
Actuation Point: 1.5mm
Total Travel Distance: 2.7mm
Sound Level: No Click
Lifetime: 70 million keystrokes guaranteed
Ideal for competitive and FPS-games with precise and instant feedback.
GL Clicky Low-Profil
Style: Clicky
Actuation Force: 60g
Actuation Point: 1.5mm
Total Travel Distance: 2.7mm
Sound Level: With Click
Lifetime: 70 million keystrokes guaranteed
Similar to the tatile switch but with the familiar click sound.
Razer
Razer is a well-known manufacturer of gaming peripherals, and its keyboard switches are designed with gamers in mind. The company offers two different types of keyboard switches – the mechanical switch and the new optical switch.
Razer machanical switches are designed to be durable, with an 80 million keystroke lifespan. The company also manufactures its keycaps and offers a variety of customization options for its keyboard switches.
Optical keyboard switches are a newer technology that offers some advantages over traditional mechanical keyboard switches. Optical keyboard switches actuate via light, which means there are no moving parts. This can result in a faster and more responsive keyboard. Optical keyboard switches also tend to be more durable than mechanical keyboard switches, with a lifespan of up to 100 million keystrokes.
Razer Yellow Switch
Style: Linear and Silent
Actuation Force: 45g
Actuation Point: 1.2mm
Total Travel Distance: 3.5mm
Sound Level: Silent
Lifetime: 80 million keystrokes guaranteed
Best for rapid-fire clicks and fast-paced gaming.
Razer Orange Switch
Style: Tactile and Silent
Actuation Force: 45g
Actuation Point: 1.9mm
Total Travel Distance: 4mm
Sound Level: Silent
Lifetime: 80 million keystrokes guaranteed
Razer Orange Switches are a mechanical keyboard switch that is designed to be quiet. The switch has a tactile bump and feedback without an audible click.
Razer Green Switch
Style: Clicky and Tactile
Actuation Force: 50g
Actuation Point: 1.9mm
Total Travel Distance: 4mm
Sound Level: With Click
Lifetime: 80 million keystrokes guaranteed
For those you enjoy the audible feedback with each click.
Razer Linear Optical Switch
Style: Linear
Actuation Force: 45g
Actuation Point: 1.2mm
Total Travel Distance: 3.5mm
Sound Level: No Click
Lifetime: 100 million keystrokes guaranteed
Recommended if you need to be faster to beat the competition and enjoy the linear click.
Razer Clicky Optical Switch
Style: Clicky and Tactile
Actuation Force: 45g
Actuation Point: 1.5mm
Total Travel Distance: 3.5mm
Sound Level: With Click
Lifetime: 100 million keystrokes guaranteed
Recommended if you need to be faster to beat the competition and want to hear and feel every keystroke.
Roccat
Roccat’s engineers designed the Titan Switch from scratch to meet the demands of precision, performance and lighting that gamers demand. The Titan switch innovates on a design that had remained unchanged for years by focusing on the elements that matter most to gamers: feel, speed, and reliability.
Titan Switch Linear
Style: Linear
Actuation Force: 45g
Actuation Point: 1.4mm
Total Travel Distance: 3.6mm
Sound Level: No Click
Lifetime: 50 million keystrokes guaranteed
Recommended for games that demand rapid keypresses, like MMO’s.
Titan Switch Tactile
Style: Tactile
Actuation Force: 45g
Actuation Point: 1.8mm
Total Travel Distance: 3.6mm
Sound Level: No Click
Lifetime: 50 million keystrokes guaranteed
Recommended for competitive gaming.
Steelseries
Steelseries new Omnipoint switches allow users to adjust the actuation distance of each individual key. This means that you can find your perfect sweet spot to play more accurately, quickly, and confidently.
Omnipoint Switch
Style: Linear
Actuation Point: Adjustable from 0.4mm to 3.6mm
Sound Level: No Click
Lifetime: 100 million keystrokes guaranteed
Recommended for all kinds of games as you can adjust each single key to your liking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a linear switch?
A linear switch is a mechanical switch that activates with a smooth, consistent keypress. Linear switches are typically quieter than other types of mechanical switches, and they are often favored by gamers.
What is a tactile switch?
A tactile switch is a mechanical switch that activates with a noticeable bump. Tactile switches are often favored by typists, as the bump helps to provide feedback that can improve typing speed and accuracy. However, tactile switches can be louder than other switch types, so they may not be suitable for everyone.
What is the difference between optical and mechanical switches?
Optical switches are a newer technology that offers some advantages over traditional mechanical keyboard switches. Optical keyboard switches actuate via light, which means there are no moving parts. This can result in a faster and more responsive keyboard.
Mechanical switches have been the standard for many years. They are typically more affordable than optical keyboard switches, and they offer a wide variety of customization options.
What´s the difference between Linear and tactile switches?
Linear switches produce a smooth, consistent keystroke, while tactile switches have a bump in the middle of the keystroke that provides feedback. Tactile and linear switches have its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Linear switches are smooth and fast, while tactile switches offer greater feedback with the possibility of even greater speed but need more actuation force.
What are Cherry MX switches?
Cherry MX switches are the most popular type of mechanical keyboard switch. They’re available in a variety of different types, each with its own benefits and drawbacks.
– Cherry MX Red: A linear switch designed for gaming but can also be used for typing.
– Cherry MX Brown: A tactile switch designed for gaming but can also be used for typing.
– Cherry MX Blue: A clicky switch designed for typing but can also be used for gaming.
Which Cherry MX switch is best for gaming?
Clicky or tactile or linear switches, I prefer tactile switches since I am a heavy typer and I like the feedback they provide but don´t want the clicking noise. For gamers I would recommend the Cherry MX red switches or Cherry MX black since they are linear, have a fast actuation and are easy to click.
How to change mechanical keyboard switches?
Most mechanical keyboard switches can be replaced with a different switch type. This process is relatively simple and only requires a few tools. You will need a switch puller, a switch tester, and some new mechanical switches.
First, use the switch puller to remove the old mechanical keyboard switches. Then, insert the new mechanical keyboard switches into the gaming keyboard. Once all of the new switches are in place, use the switch tester to test each switch. Finally, reattach the keycaps and enjoy your new mechanical keyboard!
How to clean mechanical keyboard switches?
Cleaning your mechanical keyboard switches is a simple process that can help extend the lifespan of your keyboard. First, use a can of compressed air to remove any dust or debris from the keyboard. Then, use a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol to clean the contact points on the switches. Finally, use a lint-free cloth to wipe down the rest of the keyboard.
How to remove mechanical keyboard switches?
Most mechanical keyboard switches use a Cherry-style stem. This means that they can be removed with a simple keycap puller. To remove the switches, simply insert the keycap puller into the hole at the top of the switch. Then, gently pull up on the handle of the keycap puller until the switch pops out. Repeat this process for each switch that you want to remove.
Conclusion
When it comes to keyboard switches, there are many different options to choose from. The switch that’s right for you will depend on your needs and preferences. If you’re a gamer, you might want a switch that’s fast and responsive. If you’re a typist, you might want a switch that’s easy to control. Whatever your needs, there’s a keyboard switch out there that’s perfect for you.
Do you have a keyboard with a Cherry MX Black switch? Let us know in the comments! See you next time, Happy Fragging! 🙂
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