A beginner's guide to mechanical keyboard switches
Everything you need to know about mechanical keyboard switches!
There are thousands of things that define a good keyboard. From its ability to give us immediate reaction speed or provide us with a comfortable typing experience throughout our session, the difference between one keyboard and another can be huge. However, it is well known in the gaming community that even if you don't have the money to buy the most expensive keyboard on the market, mechanical keyboard switches can help you turn an old keyboard into a beast. And that if you can combine a good keyboard with the right switch, the performance you get from your computer will be out of this world.
For this reason, we have created the perfect guide to help you find the best switches among the huge variety out there!
The three types of switches for mechanical keyboards
Mechanical keyboard switches can be divided into three main categories based on their characteristics. These are linear, tactile, and clicky. Here we will tell you the differences between each of them!
#1 Linear switches
Linear switches are characterized by being smooth and quiet throughout their movement, making them ideal for people who don't like loud noises. Since they tend to slide down fairly easily, they are among the most commonly used switches in highly competitive video games, due to their fast response action.
They are also the perfect choice for those who are used to surfing the internet in the wee hours of the morning and don't want to disturb their family or roommates.
#2 Tactile switches
Tactile switches are characterized as being quite similar to linear switches. However, there are some features that set them apart. Because they include a protrusion in the middle of the key's downward travel, these types of switches allow keystrokes to register before the keys descend toward the bottom completely.
Although they are not as quiet as linear switches, the sound produced by tactile switches is also characterized by being barely audible. That is why we consider them to be somewhere in between linear and clicky switches.
#3 Clicky switches
If you want to enjoy the sensation produced by hearing the satisfying sound produced by your keys, then you need to get a clicky switch. These types of switches focus on producing a clear and audible sound and can provide a totally enjoyable user experience.
Which mechanical keyboard switch is the one for you?
If you are a gamer and are looking for a keyboard switch that will allow you to excel in competitive gaming, then linear switches are the right choice for you. They will allow you to get that much-needed second advantage to win a ranked game in a critical situation. There are some very good options on the market, such as Cherry MX Red, Cherry MX Speed, and Kailh Black.
However, if you are planning to use your keyboard exclusively for work, you should get yourself a tactile switch. This is because tactile switches are known for making typing easier, allowing you to save abysmal amounts of time.
Finally, there are clicky switches. Although they are the loudest among these three types of switches, clicky switches are also a very good choice for beginners who are not too comfortable behind a keyboard and need to hear the characteristic sound to feel that they are typing.
They are also an excellent choice for professional typists. Please note that this type of switch should not be used in a crowded environment, since its sound can become distracting to the people around you.
If you follow these tips and choose a switch based on your activity, we are confident that you will be able to find the right mechanical keyboard switches for you, and get the best performance possible!
