Mechanical keyboards have become increasingly popular in recent years, with their tactile switches and satisfying typing experience. But with so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide on the best switch color for your mechanical keyboard. In this article, we will explore the different types of mechanical switches and discuss which switch color may be the best for your individual needs.
Mechanical switches are the heart of a mechanical keyboard. They are composed of a spring, stem, and housing. The spring is compressed when a key is pressed, and the stem travels down to connect with an electrical circuit board, registering the keystroke. The switch’s housing can be made of various materials, such as plastic or metal, and can affect the sound and feel of the switch.
The three main types of mechanical switches are linear, tactile, and clicky. Linear switches have a smooth keystroke with no tactile feedback. Tactile switches provide a slight bump when a key is pressed, giving the user tactile feedback. Clicky switches provide tactile feedback and an audible clicking sound when a key is pressed.
The best switch color for your mechanical keyboard depends on your preferences and typing style. Switch colours are typically associated with the type of switch they represent, but some manufacturers may offer different colours with different weights and actuation points. Here, we will break down the switch colours and their corresponding switch types to help you make an informed decision.
Cherry MX Switches
Cherry MX switches are the most common type of mechanical switch and are widely used in mechanical keyboards. They are available in various colours, each representing a different switch type. The most popular Cherry MX switches are the Red, Brown, Blue, and Black switches.
Cherry MX Red Switches
Cherry MX Red switches are linear switches that have no tactile feedback. They have a light actuation force of 45g and a linear travel path. Gamers favour them for their fast response time and ease of use. They are also popular among typists who prefer a quiet typing experience. The lack of tactile feedback can make it difficult to feel when a key has been pressed, but this can be beneficial for fast typing speeds. The lack of feedback can also be helpful for gaming, as it allows for quick and accurate movements without the risk of pressing the wrong key.
Cherry MX Brown Switches
Cherry MX Brown switches are tactile switches with a slight bump when a key is pressed. They have an actuation force of 45g and a tactile travel path. They are popular among gamers and typists for their tactile feedback and ease of use. The bump can help with accuracy and prevent accidental keystrokes. They also offer a quieter typing experience than clicky switches, making them a good choice for shared workspaces.
Cherry MX Blue Switches
Cherry MX Blue are clicky switches that provide tactile feedback and an audible clicking sound. They have an actuation force of 50g and a tactile travel path. They are popular among typists for their satisfying typing experience and audible feedback. The clicking sound can be helpful in touch typing, as it helps to confirm that a key has been pressed. However, the loud clicking sound can be disruptive in shared workspaces, and the high actuation force may not be suitable for fast gaming movements.
Cherry MX Black Switches
Cherry MX Black switches are linear switches that have no tactile feedback. They have a heavy actuation force of 60g and a linear travel path. Gamers favour them for their fast response time and high actuation force, which can prevent accidental keystrokes. They require a greater force to actuate than other Cherry MX switches, which can lead to hand fatigue over extended periods of use.
How to work the switch for the mechanical keyboard?
Mechanical keyboards have become increasingly popular among gamers and typists for their tactile feedback and improved durability. One of the essential components of a mechanical keyboard is the switch. A switch is a mechanism that registers when a key has been pressed and sends a signal to the computer to input the corresponding character. Several switches are available, each with its unique feel and Sound. This article will explain how a switch works and how to choose the right switch for your needs.
How a switch works?
A mechanical keyboard switch consists of several vital components. The switch housing holds the stem, which is the part that moves up and down when the key is pressed. The stem has a keycap attached to the top, the part you press with your fingers. When you press the keycap, the stem moves down and makes contact with the metal spring inside the switch. The spring compresses and then snaps back into place, creating a clicking sound and tactile feedback you feel when you press the key. The switch also has metal contacts that close when the spring is compressed, which signals to the computer that the key has been pressed.
Types of switches
Three main types of switches are available: linear, tactile, and clicky. Linear switches have a smooth and consistent feel when pressed, without tactile feedback or clicking Sound. They are ideal for typing and gaming tasks that require rapid keystrokes with minimal finger fatigue. On the other hand, Tactile switches have a small bump in the middle of the keystroke that provides tactile feedback to the user. This bump helps the user to know that the key has been actuated without having to press the key down. Clicky switches have an audible click sound produced when the key is actuated. This click is in addition to the tactile feedback felt when the bump is encountered in the middle of the keystroke.
Choosing the right switch
Choosing the right switch for your needs can be a personal decision based on your typing or gaming style. When selecting a switch, it is crucial to consider factors such as actuation force, essential travel, and Sound. Actuation force refers to the amount of pressure needed to actuate the switch. Some switches require more force to actuate, while others require less force. Essential travel refers to the distance that the keycap travels when pressed. Some switches have a shorter essential travel, while others have a more extended key travel. Sound is also an essential factor to consider when selecting a switch, as some switches produce louder clicking sounds than others.
Conclusion
Mechanical keyboard switches are a crucial component of a high-quality mechanical keyboard. They provide tactile feedback and audible clicking sounds that make typing and gaming a more enjoyable experience. When selecting a switch, it is essential to consider factors such as actuation force, key travel, and sound to choose the switch that best suits your needs. Whether you prefer linear, tactile, or clicky switches, there is a switch that will meet your requirements and help you achieve the best typing or gaming experience.
