Now let’s put these 5 characteristics in a graph and compare two switches: KAILH SPEED SILVER VS CHERRY MX BLUE Reset position is the distance at which the key is deactivated when released. On linear switches, there’s no tactile position. Tactile position is where you feel the bump on tactile and clicky switches. It’s basically the distance until you bottom out. It’s the distance your keycap travels until it hits the upper housing of the switch. It is also known as Actuation Point or Operating Position. It is the point where a keypress is recognized by the keyboard. You can say that a switch with 0.50 cN has 0.50 gf. 1 gf is equal to 0.98 cN, so they are almost equivalent. Operating force is measured in centinewton (cN) or gram-force (gf). Depending on your typing technique and the general purpose of your keyboard, you would need certain values for each characteristic.

Understanding the characteristics of a mechanical switchīesides the keystroke feel, there are 5 technical characteristics of a switch. They are great for those who want a distinct indication that of a keypress and for those who love the “clicky” sound. But they offer a distinct “click” sound when the key is activated. Clicky switchesĬlicky switches work the same way as tactile ones. They are ideal for typing because you get a slight indication of a keypress without needing to bottom out your keys.Ĭherry MX Blue Clicky switch mechanism. They provide a noticeable bump in the middle of travel to let you know that your key press has been registered. Tactile switches provide tactile feedback. The smooth keystroke allows for more rapid actuation, making them the preferred switch for gamers.Ĭherry MX Brown Tactile switch mechanism Tactile switches They move straight up and down without any tactile feedback or clicking noise. Linear switches have the simplest operation. They are defined by their keystroke behaviour.Ĭherry MX Red linear switch mechanism. There are three types of mechanical switches: linear, tactile, and clicky. If you want to learn more about how other kinds of switches work, check out this cool video! Types of mechanical switches Once you press a key, the contact mechanism hits the PCB and closes the switch circuit, thus rendering a key press. This is the piece that attaches and clips to the PCB.Ī tiny metal or gold piece where the electricity flows. This is where the upper housing is mounted. It also guides the switch to slide back to its original position. The resistance of the coil spring determines the amount of pressure needed to actuate the key. It is also the part that the keycap hits when you press the key. It creates the keystroke feel and determines the switch type. The shape of the stem varies the actuation and travel distance of the switch. The keycap isn’t part of the mechanical switch but it is partially responsible for the noise generated when the key is bottomed out. Let’s take a deeper look at the components of a mechanical switch and learn their importance one by one. They determine the activation of a keystroke. Mechanical switches are the mechanisms underneath each key. In-depth mechanical switches comparison guide.4 key factors to consider when choosing your mechanical switches.Understanding the characteristics of a switch.Types of mechanical switches: linear, tactile, and clicky.If you don’t know the answer to any of these questions, don’t worry! This guide is here to help! Table of contents Will you be using them mainly for gaming or typing?.What’s your typing style? Are you a light typist or do you tend to bottom out?.Do you like feeling a bump each time you press a key or do you prefer a smooth press?.

What noise do you like to hear when typing on your keys? And how tolerant is your environment to the click-clack of the switches?.Unfortunately, there is no easy answer to the question, “ Which switch do I choose?” Luckily, we’ve done the research and created this guide for you! Welcome to 2020’s Ultimate Guide to Mechanical Switches!Īfter you’ve spent time reading this, you’ll have a deeper understanding of mechanical switches, and more importantly, you’ll be able to choose the ones that are best for you. The problem is that there are many kinds of switches, and there’s no easy way to learn and compare them. When choosing your mechanical switches, you only want the best.

Are clicky switches good for gaming