Mechanical keyboards have become increasingly popular in recent years, largely because of their tactile feel, durability, and customizability. One of the most crucial components of a mechanical keyboard is the switch. Switches determine how a key feels and sounds when it is pressed, and there are various types of switches available, each with its unique characteristics. In this article, we will explore how mechanical keyboard switches work and the different types of switches available.

What are Mechanical Keyboard Switches?

Mechanical keyboard switches are electrical components that sit underneath each keycap and are responsible for registering key presses. Each switch contains a spring that determines how much force is required to activate it and a stem that connects to the keycap. The mechanism inside the switch is responsible for the tactile feel and sound that the keyboard makes when a key is pressed.

How do Mechanical Keyboard Switches Work?

When a key is pressed on a mechanical keyboard, it causes the switch to complete an electrical circuit that sends a signal to the computer. The switch is designed to respond to a specific amount of force, measured in grams or centinewtons (cN), which is required to actuate the switch. The force required to actuate a switch is known as the actuation force, and it can vary depending on the switch type.

When a key is pressed, the stem inside the switch compresses the spring and moves down, making contact with a metal contact point on the switch. This contact registers as a keypress and sends an electrical signal to the computer, which then registers the keypress.

After the actuation point, the switch has a small distance that it travels before it returns to its resting position. This distance is known as the reset point or the release point. The distance between the actuation point and the reset point is known as the key travel distance, which can also vary depending on the switch type.

Types of Mechanical Keyboard Switches

There are several types of mechanical keyboard switches available, each with its unique characteristics. The most popular switch types include:

Linear Switches: Linear switches are the simplest and most straightforward type of mechanical keyboard switches. They have a smooth keystroke with no tactile feedback, making them popular among gamers who require quick and precise keystrokes. Examples of linear switches include Cherry MX Red and Gateron Yellow.

Tactile Switches: Tactile switches have a bump or tactile feedback when the key actuates, giving the user a clear indication that the key has been pressed. They are popular among typists who require a more tactile feel while typing. Examples of tactile switches include Cherry MX Brown and Gateron Brown.

Clicky Switches: Clicky switches have both tactile feedback and an audible click sound when the key actuates. They are popular among users who prefer a more pronounced tactile feel and sound while typing. Examples of clicky switches include Cherry MX Blue and Kailh Box White.

Hybrid Switches: Hybrid switches combine the features of two or more switch types, providing a unique typing experience. Examples of hybrid switches include the Zealios V2 and the Holy Panda switch.

Switch Characteristics to Consider

When choosing a switch, several characteristics should be considered, including:

Actuation Force:

The amount of force required to actuate a switch can vary from switch to switch, ranging from around 35g to 80g.

Actuation Point:

The point at which the switch registers a keypress can also vary, with some switches having a higher or lower actuation point than others.

Travel Distance:

The distance the switch travels from the actuation point to the reset point can vary, with some switches having a shorter or longer travel distance than others.

Sound:

The sound a switch makes when a key is pressed can vary.

Overall, understanding how mechanical keyboard switches work and the different types available can help users choose the right switch for their needs. With the right switch, a mechanical keyboard can provide a comfortable and personalized typing or gaming experience that is both enjoyable and efficient.

Mechanical keyboards use physical switches to record keystrokes, whereas traditional keyboards use rubber domes or membranes. The switches of a mechanical keyboard can be made of different materials and come in various designs. When a key is pressed, the switch is activated, and an electrical signal is sent to the computer, indicating which key was pressed.

The switch contains several components, including a stem, a spring, and electrical contacts. The stem sits on top of the spring, and when pressed, the spring compresses and pushes the stem down to make contact with the electrical contacts. These contacts transmit the electrical signal to the computer. Once the key is released, the spring decompresses, and the stem is pushed back to its original position.

Mechanical keyboard switches offer several advantages over traditional rubber dome keyboards. They provide a more tactile and audible response, allowing users to feel and hear when a key is pressed. This can lead to more accurate typing and can be beneficial for gamers and touch typists. Additionally, mechanical switches tend to last longer and are more durable than traditional keyboards. They can withstand more key presses without losing their tactile and audible feedback.

Furthermore, mechanical keyboard switches can be customized to suit individual preferences. Switches come in various colors and designs, each with a different feel and sound. Users can choose switches with different levels of resistance, depending on how much force they prefer to use when typing. Some switches are designed for quiet operation, while others produce a more audible sound when activated.

Overall, understanding how mechanical keyboard switches work is essential for anyone who wants to choose the right keyboard for their needs. Knowing the different types of switches and their characteristics can help users make an informed decision and choose a keyboard that suits their preferences and needs.

In the conclusion, mechanical keyboard switches are an essential component of a mechanical keyboard that determine how each key feels and sounds. The design of each switch contains a spring and a stem that connects to the keycap, and each switch has a unique tactile feel and actuation force. The force required to actuate a switch is known as the actuation force, and it can vary depending on the switch type. There are several types of mechanical keyboard switches available, each with its unique characteristics. These include linear switches, tactile switches, clicky switches, and hybrid switches. Each switch type has a unique tactile feel and sound that caters to the user’s preferences. When choosing a switch, it is essential to consider factors such as actuation force, actuation point, travel distance, and sound. These characteristics vary from switch to switch and can significantly impact the typing or gaming experience.