If you are planning to buy a mechanical keyboard, here are some things you need to know. These include types of switches, Dampeners, N-key rollover, and more.
Cherry MX switches
The Cherry MX line of keyboard switches is one of the most popular mechanical keyboard switch lines available. Aside from being revered by gamers and programmers, the MX switches are also used in industrial and commercial applications.
There are several variants of the MX switches, each with their own benefits and drawbacks. Some are better than others for gaming, while others are more ideal for office work. To help you decide, we’ve put together a comprehensive comparison table.
The Cherry MX series includes both tactile and linear switches. Both types provide good tactile feedback and a smooth keystroke. However, tactiles are noisier. This can be distracting to the user while gaming. Linear are less noisy, but require a bit more force to actuate the key.
The Cherry MX Black is considered to be the stiffest and most durable of the MX switches. It’s rated for a hundred million keystrokes.
Gateron switches
Gateron switches on a mechanical keyboard offer an unparalleled level of smoothness. There are many types to choose from. Each offers different characteristics. It’s important to choose a switch that matches your preferences. The right switch can make a big difference to your typing experience.
One of the most popular switches in the market is the Gateron Red. This switch is a great choice for gaming. Unlike other mechanical keyboard switches, Gateron Red offers an excellent keystroke that does not cause wrist fatigue.
Another great feature of Gateron switches is their smooth transitions. Using copper contact leaves, these switches offer exceptional tactile feedback. A great option for gamers, Gateron switches are easy to find and come in various shapes and sizes.
Gateron switches on a mechanical keyboard are also available in a wide variety of colors. In addition to red, Gateron also produces black, blue, brown, and milk switches.
Linear switches
There are many different types of mechanical switches, and choosing the right one can be a bit daunting. Luckily, there is no need to settle for sub-par performance. You can choose a high-end, premium option to get the most out of your keyboard.
Linear keyboard switches provide fast actuation, smooth keystrokes and reliable functionality. However, some people may be disappointed with the lack of tactile feedback. This can be a problem for users with touch sensitive fingers. Some manufacturers have introduced foam pads to combat the issue.
One of the most important features of a good linear switch is its operation force. While it can be a bit cumbersome for a novice, there are some ways to increase the pressure exerted by the switch.
The best way to go about it is to get a trial switch device and test out each one. It’s also a good idea to get an expert’s opinion.
Dampeners
One of the best features of mechanical keyboards is their tactile feel. But this also means you’ll be making a lot of noise. Fortunately, you can install dampeners on your key caps and reduce the sound. Depending on your needs, there are several types of dampeners available.
Switch sound dampeners are a popular choice with mechanical keyboard users. They reduce the sound by cushioning the keystroke landing and cut down on the “click” or clack.
O-rings are another option to consider. These small rubber discs can make a big difference in the quality of your typing experience. While they are not going to do much for your clicking noise, they can help with finger fatigue. The trick is to choose an O-ring that is thick enough to reduce noise while still providing the comfort you expect.
N-key rollover
N-key rollover is a key feature of mechanical keyboards. It’s an important feature for gamers who need to type fast.
N-key rollover allows you to press several keys at once. While this feature can be very useful for gamers, it can also pose design challenges.
Typically, a full n-key rollover keyboard will allow you to press all keys simultaneously. However, this feature may come with a limit on how many keys it can recognize at once.
To check the rollover on your computer keyboard, you can use an online test. Just enter the number of keys you wish to check and the online test will show you the maximum amount of keys that will be recognized at once.
Some gaming keyboards will have N-key rollover, while others will not. For instance, some cheaper keyboards do not have this feature.
Noise
The best way to understand the noise of a mechanical keyboard is to hear it yourself. It sounds like someone playing League of Legends next to you. There are a lot of different types of keys, and you can customize your keyboard to make it less noisy. You can also use sound dampeners to reduce the noise.
The biggest part of your keyboard is the switches. You can choose from a variety of colors and styles. Some keyboards even have a built-in foam that dampens the sound. Another option is to install dampeners, which are rubber o-rings that go around the key cap yoke.
A keycap stem hits the switch box, which creates a “clack” sound. Keyboards with a gasket-mounted design, on the other hand, reduce the noise. They also have a flex that absorbs impact.
The Cherry MX line is the most popular switch. These are high-quality, color-coding switches. Their red variants are great for color-coding your computer setup. This type of switch produces a crisp, snappier feel.
If you want to try a quieter type of switch, you can also try out rubber dome switches. They’re also known for being very quiet.
Changing your keyboard’s top plates can also affect the level of noise. Some surfaces, such as a desk mat, can amplify the sound. Many people wear headphones to drown out the noise of their office.
O-Rings are cheap and can be a solution for some users. However, they’re not a great choice for everyone. Instead, try changing your keycaps to ones that are designed to be silent. Alternatively, you can change the switches themselves.
Mechanical keyboards can be as loud as a vacuum cleaner for aggressive typists. That’s why some people try to keep far away from them. Others simply don’t want to be bothered by the noise. Still others prefer a more personalized experience. Using sound-dampening foam and thick towels can help, too.
The noise of a mechanical keyboard can be a source of enjoyment for some, but for others, it can be a nuisance. In most cases, the mechanical switch isn’t loud enough to bother you, and you can customize your keyboard to make the sounds more bearable.
