Mechanical keyboards have been popular for a long time, but which switches are best for you?
This article will discuss the main things to keep in mind when deciding on your mechanical keyboard switches.
What Are Mechanical Switches?
Withtraditional membrane keyboards, there are usually three plastic membranes beneath the keys.
The top membrane has dome-shaped “switches.”
In mechanical keyboards, each key has a separate mechanism thatactuates as you press it down.
A spring then returns the key cap to the original position.
Most people tend to find mechanical keyboards much more satisfying and easier to use than membrane keyboards.
The thing is, there are dozens of mechanical switches, and they differ quite substantially.
How Do Mechanical Switches Differ?
There are three main categories of mechanical switches: Linear, tactile, and clicky.
Linear keys have a smooth, consistent stroke.
Tactile switches have a noticeable, tactile “bump” in the middle of the keystroke.
Finally, clicky switches make a sharp clicking noise in the middle of the keypress.
Each of these has definite pros and cons depending on what you’re using them for.
Many keyboard users also prefer a tactile switch over a linear or clicky switch.
Although, if noise isn’t an issue, there’s no reason not to go loud!
The color differences refer to how clicky and heavy the keys are.
Many typists like this as it lets them know they’ve pressed the key without needing too much pressure.
This can help to reduce errors, reduce strain, and increase typing speed.
They are also far louder and produce a more tactile bump when compared to the Cherry MX Browns.
If you have no problem with noisiness, Cherry MX Blues are a great choice.
If quietness is paramount, here are some excellent silent keys to get you started.
They come in two forms, one set requiring 62 grams for actuation and one requiring 68 grams.
The U4s are generally regarded as having an excellent tactile response that makes typing very satisfying.
They also require slightly less weight to actuate at 45 grams, making them great for avoiding strain.
These are switches that actuate as fast as possible and need the least force.
Cherry MX Speed Silver
Cherry MX Speed Silver keys have been specially designed for gamers.
They have an actuation distance of only 1.2mm and require only 45 grams of pressure to actuate.
In addition, these linear keys are smooth and highly consistent, with absolutely no bump.
The downside to Speed Silvers is that they’re relatively hard to source and can be more expensive.
If this is a problem, Cherry MX Reds are a great alternative.
