How mechanical keyboard switches work
Basic structure
Mechanical keyboard switches have a complex but sophisticated structure, including main components such as housing, stem, spring and contact points. Housing is the outer shell, usually made of high-quality plastic, protecting the internal components and shaping the stem's movement. Stem, also known as shaft, is the central part of the switch, moving up and down when the key is pressed. It usually has a characteristic shape depending on the type of switch, directly affecting the feeling when typing. Spring, or spring, located under the stem, creates a reverse push when the key is pressed down, ensuring the stem returns to its original position after each press.Activation process
The activation process of mechanical keyboard switches is a series of events that takes place in a split second. When the user acts on the key, the stem begins to move down, compressing the spring below. At a certain point in the stem's travel, called the actuation point, the electrical contacts meet, creating a closed circuit. This signal is recognized by the keyboard's microprocessor and converted into the corresponding input command. In particular, in tactile and clicky switches, this process is accompanied by a characteristic "bump" or clicking sound, providing clear feedback to the user.Differences from membrane switches
The difference between mechanical switches and membrane switches lies not only in the structure but also in the user experience. Membrane switches use thin membranes with directly printed contact points, creating a softer feel and less feedback. In contrast, mechanical switches provide clear tactile feedback, high accuracy and superior longevity. While membrane switches can lose sensitivity after a period of use, mechanical switches maintain a consistent feel throughout the product's life. This explains why understanding mechanical keyboard switches is important for users who demand a high typing experience. The complexity of the structure and operation of mechanical switches not only creates a technical difference but also deeply affects the user's psychology. The tactile feel, feedback sound and high durability create a unique typing experience, making many people attached to mechanical keyboards. At the same time, the diversity in the design of mechanical switches also opens up the possibility of keyboard customization and personalization, a strength that membrane switches can hardly match.
Popular types of mechanical keyboard switches
Linear switches
Linear switches are mechanical switches characterized by a smooth and constant actuation from start to finish. When pressing a key, the user will feel a steady force without any "bump" or tactile feedback. This makes linear switches ideal for users who prefer speed and consistency in each keystroke. Popular examples of linear switches include Cherry MX Red and Cherry MX Black. Cherry MX Red is popular among gamers due to its light actuation force (45g), allowing for fast and repetitive actions. Meanwhile, Cherry MX Black has a heavier actuation force (60g), suitable for those who prefer a solid feel and want to avoid accidental keystrokes. Understanding linear mechanical keyboard switches helps users appreciate their advantages in situations that require high speed and accuracy, such as gaming or professional data entry work.Tactile switches
Tactile switches are mechanical switches that provide a distinct tactile feedback when a key is actuated. They are characterized by a small tactile "bump" at the actuation point, creating a distinct feeling when a key has been successfully pressed. This allows the user to accurately know when an input command has been registered without having to fully depress the key. Cherry MX Brown is one of the most popular tactile switches. With a medium actuation force (45g) and a gentle tactile bump, it provides a good balance between response and speed, suitable for both office work and light gaming. Other variants such as Zealios or Halo True provide a stronger tactile feel, meeting the needs of users who want a more distinct feedback experience. Understanding the characteristics of tactile switches in the context of mechanical keyboard switches is key to choosing the right keyboard for those who need a balance between response and performance.Clicky switches
Clicky switches are mechanical switches that stand out for their distinctive "click" sound and distinct tactile feel when the key is actuated. This type of switch not only provides tactile feedback but also produces a crisp sound, helping users accurately identify when the key is actuated through both touch and hearing. Cherry MX Blue is a typical representative of clicky switches. With an activation force of about 50g and a clear click sound, it brings a satisfying typing experience for those who love strong feedback. Other variants such as Kailh Box White or Razer Green also provide unique clicky experiences, with differences in sound depth and tactile feel. Understanding clicky mechanical keyboard switches not only helps users choose a keyboard that suits their personal preferences, but also helps them evaluate the suitability of this type of switch in the working environment. While satisfying typing on, the sound of clicky switches can be distracting to those around you in a shared workspace.
Mechanical keyboard switches explained - Important properties
Actuation force
Actuation force, or actuation force, is one of the core properties when explaining mechanical keyboard switches. This is the amount of force required to press the key down to the actuation point, where the switch registers the input command. This force is usually measured in grams (g) and can range from around 35g to 80g depending on the switch type. Switches with low actuation forces, like Cherry MX Red (45g), are often favored by gamers and fast typists because they allow for quick, repetitive actions with less fatigue. Conversely, switches with higher actuation forces, like Cherry MX Black (60g), are suitable for those who prefer a solid feel and want to minimize accidental keystrokes.Travel distance
Travel distance, or travel distance, is the next important property when explaining mechanical keyboard switches. This is the distance the stem of the switch moves from its resting position to when fully pressed. Typically, this distance ranges from 2mm to 4mm, with the actuation point being about halfway through travel. Switches with a short travel distance, such as those specifically designed for gaming (e.g. Cherry MX Speed Silver with 3.4mm total travel and 1.2mm actuation point), provide a quicker response, ideal for situations that require high speed. Conversely, switches with a longer travel distance typically provide a fuller and more satisfying typing feel, which is preferred by those who prefer a more traditional typing experience. Understanding the travel distance in mechanical keyboard switches not only helps users adjust their typing style, but also influences the choice of the right keyboard for specific tasks, from professional gaming to office work that requires high precision.Tactile feedback
Tactile feedback, or tactile feedback, is a unique property of mechanical keyboard switches, especially important in tactile and clicky switches. It is the “bump” or resistance that the user feels when pressing a key to its actuation point. In tactile switches like the Cherry MX Brown, tactile feedback appears as a slight “bump,” providing audible feedback without sound. Clicky switches like the Cherry MX Blue also combine tactile feedback with a distinctive click sound, creating a multisensory experience. Understanding tactile feedback on mechanical keyboard switches helps users gauge the level of feedback they need from their keyboard. This is especially important for people who work with precision, like programmers or writers, who may appreciate knowing exactly when a key has been actuated without looking at the screen.Acoustic feedback
Acoustic feedback, or audible feedback, is the last but not least attribute when explaining mechanical keyboard switches. This is the sound produced when the switch is actuated, which can range from almost silent to a distinct click depending on the switch type. Linear switches like Cherry MX Red typically produce the least amount of sound, with only a slight “thud” when the key bottoms out. Tactile switches like Cherry MX Brown produce a moderate sound, while clicky switches like Cherry MX Blue are known for their crisp, clear clicks. In short, understanding the key attributes of mechanical keyboard switches – actuation force, travel distance, tactile feedback, and acoustic feedback – is key to a comprehensive explanation and evaluation of different types of switches. These attributes not only affect the feel of the keys, but also determine the performance and suitability of the keyboard in different usage scenarios. By mastering these concepts, users can make informed decisions when choosing a mechanical keyboard, while also gaining a deeper understanding of how mechanical keyboard switches affect the overall typing experience.
